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Allergy-Friendly and Inclusive Treats for Halloween
Celebrating Halloween should be a delightful experience for every child and participant, irrespective of their dietary restrictions or allergies. By providing allergy-friendly treats and being conscious of potential cross-contamination issues, we can ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare.
Comprehensive List of Non-Food Treat Alternatives
To accommodate children with food allergies, consider offering a variety of non-food treats. Participating in initiatives like the Teal Pumpkin Project can signal to parents that you have safe options available. Here are some suggestions:
Stickers: Halloween-themed or assorted.
Pencils, erasers, and pencil toppers.
Bouncy balls.
Glow sticks or glow-in-the-dark toys.
Mini notebooks or coloring books.
Temporary tattoos.
Mini figurines or action figures.
Bubbles.
Bookmarks.
Craft supplies (e.g., pipe cleaners, googly eyes).
Guidance on Preventing Cross-Contamination
If you’re providing a mix of food and non-food treats, it’s critical to minimize the risk of cross-contamination. Here are some steps you can take:
Separate Storage: Keep non-food treats in a separate container from food treats.
Clean Hands and Surfaces: Ensure that your hands and any surfaces that treats may come in contact with are clean.
Use Tongs or Gloves: When handing out treats, use tongs or wear gloves to prevent direct hand contact.
Provide Ingredient Lists: For any food treats, have a list of ingredients available for parents to check.
Ask About Allergies: Don’t hesitate to ask if a child has any allergies and let the parents know what non-food options are available.
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